Community-based drug checking program for xylazine in rural and tribal areas
Official title: Community Mitigation Against Xylazine
Funded at Research Triangle Institute · NIH-10948526 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new program that helps people in rural and tribal communities in Minnesota check their drugs for a substance called xylazine, so they can know what's in them and get the support they need if necessary.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Research Triangle Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Research Triangle Park, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $212,200 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DA060954-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10948526 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals aged 21 and older who use illicit drugs, particularly in rural and tribal communities in Minnesota.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use illicit drugs or are not part of rural or tribal communities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the feasibility and acceptability of a community-based drug checking program that operates through a syringe service program. It aims to collect real-time information about the presence of xylazine in the illicit drug supply, particularly in rural and tribal communities in Minnesota. By utilizing advanced testing technologies, the program seeks to provide individuals with immediate information about their drugs and connect them to necessary treatment and services. The study addresses a critical gap in understanding how such programs can be effectively implemented in vulnerable populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the safety of drug users by providing timely information about harmful substances in the drug supply and facilitating access to treatment.
How similar studies have gone: While community-based drug checking programs have shown promise in urban settings, this approach in rural and tribal communities is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Research Triangle Institute
Research Triangle Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ray, Bradley — Research Triangle Institute
- Study coordinator: Ray, Bradley
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.